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Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
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This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken smothered in rich, creamy homemade gravy. Perfect for busy days, it combines simple ingredients and slow cooking to produce a comforting, family-friendly meal that pairs well with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

  • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4-6 pieces)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Thyme (fresh or dried), 1 teaspoon

Aromatics and Fat

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Gravy Base

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup milk or cream

Optional Variations

  • Rosemary or sage instead of thyme (1 teaspoon)
  • Vegetable add-ins such as carrots, mushrooms, or celery (1 cup, chopped)
  • Gluten-free flour or cornstarch in place of regular flour (3 tablespoons)
  • Coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream (1/2 to 3/4 cup)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces and pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and thyme to build a flavorful base.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and lightly sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. Transfer to the slow cooker to enhance the gravy’s flavor.
  3. Add Chicken and Broth: Place the seasoned chicken on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth to partially cover the chicken; this liquid will become the savory gravy.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Set the slow cooker to low and cook uncovered for 4 to 6 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to fall off the bone.
  5. Make the Gravy: Carefully remove the chicken and keep warm. In a small bowl, whisk flour into cold milk or cream until smooth, then stir into the slow cooker juices. Cook on high for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to desired consistency.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Return the chicken to the slow cooker or serving dish, spoon the rich gravy over the top, and garnish as desired to indulge in a homemade comforting meal.

Notes

  • Thighs are preferred for slow cooking because they stay moist better than breasts.
  • Sautéing onions and garlic before slow cooking boosts flavor complexity.
  • Avoid overfilling the slow cooker to keep the gravy rich, not watery.
  • Add the flour-milk mixture gradually while whisking to prevent lumps.
  • Adjust seasoning at the end by tasting the gravy and adding salt or pepper as needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, chicken and gravy, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, slow cooker recipe, creamy gravy

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/slow-cooker-chicken-and-gravy/